Click on the word 'edit' on the tab in the upper right hand corner. Add your resources to the list by locating the correct placement according to alphabetical order. You can also click on the ''discussion tab' above and add a message related to your postings. Once you have posted all of your annotations to the wiki, paste qll of your annotations in one email and send it to Dr. Edwards.
Adams, Caralee. 2009. Digital storytelling. Instructor 119, no. 3 (November/December): 35-37. This article emphasizes the infiltration of technology into classrooms and the positive and meaningful learning opportunities that this infiltration offers. Specifically, it discusses the process of digital story telling. It includes commentary from teachers across the United
States who have had positive experiences implementing digital story telling within their classrooms. This article also presents the key components necessary for digital storytelling to be successful.
Adams, Helen R. “Advocating for Intellectual Freedom with Principals and Teachers” School Library Media Activities Monthly 25, no. 6 (February 2009): 54.
This article deals with how to get your school informed and on board with intellectual freedom. The focal point is education. The author makes a good point that intellectual freedom is not a part of standard teacher or administrator training, and therefore it is up to the library media specialist to provide professional development in this area. When teachers and principals understand the reasons for intellectual freedom, they can knowledgably support the library media specialist if ever needed. This builds a base of allies.
Anderson, Cynthia. 1998. Salute your library volunteers. Library Talk 11(5): 15.
This is a short article that gives fun and unique ways of showing appreciation to the library volunteers. It includes a “skit” based on a popular Jonny Carson skit.
Barber, Peggy, and Linda Wallace. 2009. The power of word-of-mouth marketing. American Libraries 40 (11): 36-39.
Building buzz by training library staff simply to talk to patrons about library resources is the marketing technique the authors describe. The article cites the ease, effectiveness and no-cost aspects of word-of-mouth marketing.
Baule, Steven M. and Laura Blair Bertani. “Marketing 101 for your Library Media Program: How to Gain Support from your Board and Administration.” The Book Report (November/December) (2000): 47-49.
The authors, a director of information technology and the director of personnel and communications for New Trier Township High School district in Winnetka, Illinois, outline useful steps that a library media specialist can use to promote his or her program to administrators. They advise making the library visible and usable by offering to host board meetings. Further, publishing a well-written monthly or quarterly newsletter aids media specialists’ promotional goals. Most importantly, in public relations interactions, media specialists should use technology where appropriate to help propagate an image of the new resource manager in the library as opposed to a more traditional view of the “library lady.” A quick and easy read, this article is packed with solid practical advice.
Baum, Karen. 2002. A legend in their own lunchtime: Visiting speaking inspire kid to read and learn about different professions. School Library Journal 48(9):41.
This article is a review of a program put on by a real, elementary school librarian. “Library Lunchtime” is a program that brings in interesting characters to make presentation to students during their lunch hour. Students bring their lunches and listen to presentations, geared toward the attentions of elementary school students (however, I can see this in a middle school as well), focus on the interesting lives and profession of the visitors. Guests have included hypnotists, FBI agents, and even a student’s 57-year-old grandmother who is a world-class weight lifter (this brought in the largest crowd yet, over 100 students, to see a grandma lift 165 pounds in the library). The presenters and librarian always have books pulled that pair well with the presentation, and they are among the first checked after each program. This brief article introduces a great idea for getting kids in the library and reading for pleasure.
Berry III, John N. “Restart Library Advocacy.” Library Journal 130 (2005): 10.
Berry advocates that we restart library advocacy and develop campaigns to express the value of libraries. Library use is growing, suggesting that libraries must have the support of the community, above all else, to survive.
Bush, Gail, and Merrilee Andersen Kwielford. 2001. Marketing reflections: Advocacy in action. Teacher Librarian 28(5): 8-12.
This article discusses the lack of marketing in school libraries. It points out assumptions about and possessed by school librarians in terms of their necessary tasks. The article further outlines school collaboration, administrative support, community involvement, and the school library’s place within the sate and nation. Even if the article seems too theoretical, even just the knowledge of the different levels of marketing that need to be addressed in a school library may be enough to turn on the light bulb in the heads of a few school librarians: 6. State and National 5. Community 4. Administration 3. School 2. Library resources and programs 1. Basic assumptions about the library. Casey, Michael, and Michael Stephens. “Let’s All Lighten Up.” Library Journal 133.13 (2008): 24. http://web.ebscohost.com/?vid=15&hid=6&sid=8b2clele-0412-477a-b972 (accessed October 5, 2009).
This article says exactly what the title says. It emphasizes the idea that libraries should be
fun for everyone. With the world the way it is Casey and Stephens believe that a library should be a place where anyone can come and enjoy themselves. They encourage the use of a colorful environment, the use of technology, and even the use of gamming systems for all ages. They even encourage staff recognition. Their bottom line, librarians, library staff, and patrons should, “Laugh. Explore. Play. Try new things. Give a little, Share a lot.”
Casey, Michael and Michael Stephens. “Library PR 2.0.” Library Journal 133 (2008): 24.
In a fast-paced, socially-networked society, libraries must connect to their users through marketing and programs. Services and news stories must be relevant to the users and promoted by all library staff.
Champion, Sandra and Christine Master. “When Disaster Strikes.” School Library Journal 39 (1993): 146.
After Hurricane Andrew, the Dade County Public School system librarians looked back at the lessons they learned from the devastation. Their school library media services department had a disaster plan, but never expected to actually use it. The new plan is more comprehensive and based on experience.
Circle, Allison. 2009. “Marketing Trends to Watch.” School Library Journal. 134(16): 26-9 This article contains a look at trends in marketing that could be applied to library media centers. The author discusses the usefulness of things like Twitter, mobile marketing, and video marketing. She also spends time analyzing the value of school library media centers, as well as online reputation management, and value-added content. Circle explores micromarketing, the death of email, and the importance of green library media centers. She also writes about the value of design, and creating an emotional connection. Circle also includes seven tips for making your marketing stronger. This article is useful for library media specialists with no experience or years of experience. It is full of helpful ideas and can be very useful in marketing your library. Circle, Alison. 2009. Marketing trends to watch. Library Journal 134 (16):26-29. By giving examples from the business world, the author encourages libraries to reach patrons through the use of 13 current technology and marketing avenues, including Twitter and text-messaging services.
Coatney, Sharon. “Does the room make the library program, or does the library program make the room?” Teacher Librarian(October 2005): 60.This article by describing the renovation of a library and the end of year evaluations shows that while making the library look good, either through renovation or PR may get people in the door, it is the librarians themselves that determine the final popularity and effectiveness of the library. This is especially important to remember when we are spending so much time focused on PR. PR is just to bring the people in. We need to serve them well or we are just wasting time. Collier, Anne. 2009. A better safety net. School Library Journal 55, no. 11 (November): 36-38. This article addresses the potential safety issues presented when children and young adults use the internet. The Internet Safety Technical Task Force has found that online issues such as cyberbullying are prevalent. The importance of children and young adults engaging in appropriate online behavior is stressed. This article suggests that aggressive and inappropriate online behavior of youth increases the risk of internet victimization. It concludes with advice for effective citizenship and literacy training in order to foster online safety for children and young adults.
Doyle, Miranda. 2008. Go where the teens are. Voice of Youth Advocates 30 (6):504-505. Stop marketing a library’s electronic resources only to the library’s web sites is the advice the author gives in marketing library resources to teens. Innovative techniques taking advantage of popular electronic resources such as Facebook and LiveJournal are described. Duckor, Anita S. "From Awareness to Funding." American Libraries. 40, no. 1/2. (Jan-Feb 2009):45-7.
In the midst of a financial crisis that eventually led to an unprecedented merging of two major library systems, the Minneapolis Public learned some tough lessons about being proactive about funding and advocacy. This unique look at success through failure is a wake up call to all librarians who feel it is not their job to promote the library in the community.
Fagan, Jody Condit. 2009. Marketing the virtual library. Computers in Libraries 29 (7):25-30. Citing statistics showing the surprisingly greater number of Americans who visit a physical library as compared to those who use online libraries, the author gives easy suggestions for marketing a library’s electronic resources, including using postcards and brochures.
Farmer, Lesley. 1998, Know-how to help kids know now. Library Talk 11(5): 8. The article begins with ideas of jobs volunteers can perform in different areas of the library. It is then sectioned off with how to interview, train, deal with technology issues, and the supervision and development of the volunteers. Let the volunteers know they are a valuable part of the library.
Farmer, Lesley and Marilyn Shontz. 2009. Spending survey. School Library Journal 55, no. 4 (April): 38-44. This article examines the expenditures and collections of school libraries in light of the current economic status. The examination is presented through the results of a survey conducted by School Library Journal. It addresses key components such as librarian experience in relation to salary, resource expenditures, collection size, and technological availability as well as usage. This article also includes various tables, charts, and graphs displaying data results of the financial status survey Fullner, Sheryl Kindle. “Is Your Fish Dead? Create Your Library Brand.” Library Media Connection (March 2007): 32-33. This article talks about the importance of creating and maintaining a brand for you school library. It examines the various audiences of a school library and gives advice on how to approach each of them. But despite the focus on parents, teachers, administration, and community as important audiences, the main focus of this article connecting with students. Fullner, Sheryl Kindle. “Is Your Fish Dead?: Create Your Library Brand.” Library Media Connection 25, no. 6 (March 2007): 32-33. http://www.ebscohost.com/?vid=31&bk=1&hid=108&sid=8b2clele-0412-477a (accessed October 5, 2009).
This article directly correlates with what we have focused on this semester,
communicating who you are as a library to the public is a vital part of your existence. It covers
many of the things our book covered but in direct relation to a school library (mission statement,
physical environment, and doing more than the public’s expectations. It talks about school and
district newsletters being a good way to communicate your brand. The article also discusses the
importance of making sure your message is cohesive. Fullner gives 5 different ways for you to
figure out the publics perception of your school library. Each one focuses on a different group
with uses or is connected with the library: students, teachers, administrators, parents, and the
community.
Geier, Denise B. “Prevent a Disaster in Your Library: Advertise.” Library Media Connection (January 2007): 32-33. This article advocates the idea that librarians need to demonstrate their contributions to their school in tangible ways in order to insure their jobs. Building a constituency and getting key reports to administrators are two major suggestions the author proposes, along with programming, publicity, collaboration with teachers, making the library the hub of the school, and developing connections with individuals and groups throughout the community. Highlighting our contributions on a regular basis will help our key role in the school become more evident and give us ammunition to help head off budget cuts.
Gilmore-See, Janice. "Call to Action for Library Media Specialists" School Library Media Activities Monthly 25, no. 5 (January 2009): 51-53.
This article has a great deal in common with our text. The author's focus is on the role of library media specialist as advocate, stressing the importance of relating to the community the value of the school library. Many of the suggestions in the article parallel our text, especially in regards to understanding public perception, press releases, and volunteering in the community. The author reminds library media specialists that the target audience for maintaining adequate staffing and funding are the constituents of the school board and other elected officials. If you can get the constituents on board with your program, the people that work to serve them will get on board too. Finally, the most impressive idea I found in the article was to have students create the public relations tools for the library such as videos, news, or blogs. I liked this idea because it promotes the library while showcasing the products of the librarian's work with students. How better to sell your program than to directly show how your are working with students and increasing their skills?
Gilmore-See, Janice. 2009. “Call to Action for Library Media Specialists.” SchoolLibraryMedia Activities Monthly. 25(5): 51-3. This article highlights the image problem that school library media centers often have with adults. Gilmore addresses public relations issues. She advocates for a home base call to action, which simply means using the tools you already have to advocate for your library media center. She addresses where to start, attitude, enabling others to advocate, and updating the library’s image. Gilmore believes that students can be useful tools in advocating for the library media center. She advises media specialists to think big, and use tools like iMovie, blogs, and newscasts. This article is useful for new library media specialists just beginning their careers and more experienced media specialists trying to work on new advocating plans.
Goodstein, Anastasia. 2008. What would Madison Avenue do? Marketing to teens. School Library Journal 54(5) 40-43.
This article explores the habits and interests of teens as they could relate to a marketing campaign. The article targets ideas that are helpful in marketing to teens, especially marketing implemented by the library. The article begins with a few facts about teen habits that could be crucial elements to any campaign directed toward them (web habits, attention span, etc). Further included, specific tips on creating marketing campaigns that will attract teens.
Grossman, Jean Baldwin and Katyrn Furano. 1999. Making the Most of Volunteers. Law and Contemporary Problems. v 62
This article speaks to volunteering in general, but hits key points on how to allow volunteers to be effective no matter whom or what the host organization. It offers effective volunteer practices, evaluation and practical examples. In these settings, the effectiveness of volunteers depends critically on the support they receive from the programs in which they work.
Hand, Dorcas. "What Can Teacher-Librarians Do To Promote Their Work and the School Library Media Program? Keep Everyone in the Loop: Constant Advocacy. Teacher Librarian 36, no.2 (Dec 2008): 26.
This article provides sound advice to librarians about how to keep students, faculty and parents informed of the important role the library plays at the school. Hand suggests writing one press release every week, even if it is only in the school newsletter. Regular consistent updates to the library website and collaboration meetings with teachers are also on the short but idea rich list of advocacy recommendations. Harvey, Carl A. "Principal Perspective, Part 3: Advocacy and Shared Vision" School Library Media Activities Monthly 25, no. 6 (Feb 2009): 51-53.
Hartzell, Gary. "How Do Decision-Makers Become Library Media Advocates." Knowledge Quest 36, no. 1 (2007): 33 - 35.
This article examines how and why school administrators become advocates for school libraries. The main point of the article is that if school librarians want to improve their libraries they have to take a proactive stance at breaking down stereotypes that may be held school adminstrators. The article gives some general information and tips on how to do that.
Hartzell, Gary. "Tactics for Building Influence with Teachers." Library Media Connection 27, no. 1 (2008): 44.
Something I have learned from school media classes is that teachers can be are best advocates or our most reluctant users. It was constantly stressed that school media specialists had to cultivate relationships with teachers. This article contains 34 tips and suggestions for getting teachers and administration on the side of school media programs and specialists.
Carl Harvey interviewed his principal and discusses the importance of the school library in this article. Topics covered include the importance of collaboration between LMS and teachers, funding for the library and advice on how to keep the library on the radar for the district.
Hoagland, Mary Arthur. 1984. Training and gaining school library volunteers. Catholic Library World 56(5): 213-16.
While this article speaks to an audience for parochial elementary school libraries, it offers tips and suggestions that can be used by any type of school library. Not only does it give various resources for recruitment and training, it also offers assistance for the volunteers like book mending, reviewing and purchasing
Howard, Jody K. "Advocacy through Relationships" School Library Monthly 26, no.2 (October 2009): 44-45.
This article focuses primarily on promoting the library through positive interactions with peers. The author emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and understanding that the overall opinion of the library can be strongly influenced by the image the librarian conveys to the community. Creating and maintaining positive relationships in the school and wider community is presented not only as an essential PR tool, but as a tool for changing the environment of the school as well. Illustrations are presented to show the power of positive work experiences between librarians and the teachers they collaborate with. In one instance, a positive relationship of teaching and collaboration led to changing the overall school policy in favor of flexible scheduling.
Immroth, Barbara, and W. Bernard Lukenbill. 2007. Teacher-School library media specialist collaboration through social marketing strategies: An information behavior study. School Library Media Research, vol 10. http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/aasl/aaslpubsandjournals/slmrb/slmrcontents/volume10/immroth_teacherslmscollaboration.cfm#method (accessed November 14, 2009).
This article performed research on teacher interaction, acceptance, and attitudes of the school media center. Different attempts to promote collaboration between teachers and librarians were tested, and the thoughts and feelings of the librarians and teachers involved were measured and codified. “Social marketing is a concept promoted by Zaltman, Kotler, and Kaufman (1972), in which they reasoned that the same marketing principles used to sell products to consumers could be used to promote socially beneficial ideas, attitudes, and behaviors to target audiences.”
Isaacson, David. “Serve Their Needs, Not Their Wants.” Library Journal 131 (2006): 82.
Libraries need to focus on the business of educating users and making knowledge accessible, rather than attempting to compete with popular bookstores. Librarians are essential for educating society on accessing and evaluating information.
Johns, Sara Kelly. “Connections, communications, collaborations...are we there yet?” Knowledge Quest (May-June 2008): 4-7.
This article is more about promoting the value of library media specialists than the library. It gives specific instances in which action has been taken to increase the understanding in communities across the country of the value of a library media specialist. When so many people seem to think all librarians do is file and check out books I think this type of PR is very important.
Johns, Sara Kelly. "What Can Teacher-Librarians Do to Promote Their Work and School Library Media Program? Offensive Formula: P + M=A." Teacher Librarian. 36, no.2 (Dec 2008): 30-31.
Promotion + Marketing = Advocacy is the focus of this article by Sara Kelly Johns. Johns explains the logic behind her formula, always keep the library in view so faculty, administration and parents recognize the importance of the school library. Regular promotions, good rapport with teachers and having a presence at all school events are encouraged in this article. The author suggests the LMS wear clothing promoting the library, or reading in general, at after hours school events to provide conversation starters to those attending.
Junion-Metz, Gail. 2003. “Sell Yourself” School Library Journal. 49(10): 40.
This article contains public relations and marketing tips for library media specialists. It contains links to five websites with marketing and public relations tips. Some of the organizations included are: Ohio Library Foundation, North Suburban Library System, and the American Library Association. The article also links to more articles on marketing. It is a good article for new library media specialists. However, it would be more useful if it had more links.
Kenner, Adam and Sheryl Rivera. “Media literacy: good news.” Knowledge Quest (March-April 2007): 58-60.This article discusses the effects of media on children and the necessity of teaching them to read between the lines. It could be considered for examples of how modern advertising works to reach children, and also as a caution, because children pick up the messages we give them almost subconsciously and we need to be sure our messages are always completely honestly and accurate. We need to be aware of how powerful advertising and not take that power for granted. Labiak, Beth. “It’s Never Too Late to Promote Your Library Services.” Library Media Connection (February 2007): 49. This article gives specific, practical ideas for improving your school’s awareness of the library media center and the resources it offer both students and teachers. The emphasis here is on the fact that even small efforts to reach out to others in the school community make a positive impact on how others perceive your library programs and resources.
very?vid=9&hid=6&sid=8b2clele-0412-477a-b972-2 (accessed October 5, 2009).
This article first describes Web 2.0 and its function in our society. It compares the rise in
popularity to first appearance and introduction that the world wide web had on libraries. She
encourages librarians to see Web 2.p and its daily advancements as a tool for librarians and not
something else that is taking the place of books. She discusses what some people say are the
evils of Web 2.0. the most important thing that McDermott draws attention to is multiple 2.0
applications that be used by librarians to improve their library, reach new patrons, and make their
job easier. She even references the use of Wiki pages! This article is a great reference for
multiple online sites, programs, and services to make the job of a librarian easier and more
interactive. Examples: www.librarything.com, http://del.icio.us, www.facebook.com, http://www.bloglines.com, http://mashable.com/2007/07/04
Lanham, Allen. 2009. An invitation is never out of fashion. ILA Reporter 27 (2):22-23. Although the article is aimed toward academic libraries, all libraries can find the author’s ideas for inviting current library users to bring new library patrons into a library’s programs.
Lemmons, Karen. 2009. Professional development 2.0. School Library Monthly 26, no. 3 (November): 22-23.
This article describes an online course, “23 Things Teachers Need to Know about Web 2.0,” offered by Wayne Regional Educational Services. It provides advice for preparing for the ten week program. It also outlines a schedule of concepts and activities that the ten week program covers. This article also suggests ways for school librarians to create a personalized version of this course in order to foster technological awareness and implementation most appropriate for their given school and curriculum.
Levitov, Deborah Detenbeck. 2009. “Advocacy Links…Tools to Use.” School Library Media Activities Monthly. 25(7): 4.
Levitov highlights some useful PR tools on the American Association of School Librarians website. She notes that one needs to understand the definitions of public relations, marketing, and advocacy to be able to start advocacy planning. She stresses the significance of public relations and advocacy to library management.
Loertscher, David. "Advocating through Statistics, Research, and Major Reports." Teacher Librarian 36, no. 2 (2008): 46.
This article is a guide for school librarian who need to find statistics, surveys, and other quantitative data for their advocacy campaigns. It includes sites for federal and state statistics, technology surveys, and other reports related to school libraries.
Logan, Debra Kay. "Being Heard . . . Advocacy+Evidence+Students=Impact!" School Library Media Activities Monthly 23, no. 1 (2006): 46 - 48.
This is an interesting article on how advocacy is first defined and then put into practice. Ms. Logan says that advocacy first starts with what is meaningful to stakeholders (students), and then using qualitative and quantitative data to show to teachers and administrators the positive impact school libraries have on student learning.
Mangel, Kristy. "P.I.G.S.: The "Silk Purse" of Library Marketing." Illinois Library Association Reporter. 19, no.2. (April 2001): 10-12.
The article discusses the region-wide marketing plan developed by the Alliance Library System (ALS) in Illinois. The plan, designed to raise awareness of ALS's role in interlibrary loans, gave the ALS much more than it expected. This look at a successful marketing plan is a great tool for any librarian.
McElmeel, Sharon L. "Making PR an Outreach Activity." Book Report 19, no. 1 (2000): 10 - 11.
This article explains the importance of extending PR beyond school walls. It gives tips and ideas for spreading the word about school libraries in the broader community with such things as food drives. It also gives handy tips on writing press releases and newsletters.
McHenry, Cheryl. 1988. Library volunteers: Recruiting, motivating, keeping them. School Library Journal 34(9): 44-47. Having good volunteers in a library is a vital component to a successful program. This article gives simple and practical ideas on how to recruit, train, motivate and appreciate. Martin, Ann. "Promote, Lead & Refuse: Librarianship in Tough Times." Knowledge Quest. 37, no.4 (March 2009): 6. The 2008-09 American Assocation of School Librarians President Ann Martin writes about the need for continuing advocacy in tough economic times. This article discusses the need for all school librarians to "proactively position the Library Media Program as an area of critical need ...and the library as essential" Martin explains that too often librarians do not advocate the importance of use of the library and it becomes an easy target when budget crisis occur. The AASL toolkits are discussed and information on how to access the toolkits as well as other resources are listed.
Miller, Donna. "Customers and Culture: The Who and What of Library Public Relations Efforts." Library Talk. (May/June 2002): 12-16. This article is a resource for the school media specialist who is wary of PR and putting themselves out in the public. There are little, everyday things that can have as much of an impact on public relations as the big campaigns and promotions. The author reminds librarians that going beyond normal expectations to aid peers can boost a librarian's image. Try to have positive relationships with every peer, supervisor, and community member that you can. Invest in building relationships that can be improved upon. Know what is expected of you within the school community and try to meet those expectations. It is often the little things that get overlooked that can damage public relations, like not showing team spirit by wearing the school colors on Friday, so be willing to focus on details.
“Partners in a Great Adventure.” Library Journal 130 (2005): 14.
Ingenuity and fun must be incorporated in public relations to sell a program. Partnerships with the community, local businesses, government agencies, and other librarians are crucial by combining the strengths of many into something successful.
Schulz, Cynthia D. "Developing an Advocacy Plan for the SchoolLibraryMediaCenter. Book Report. (November/December 1999): 19-22. This article deals largely with librarians making themselves more visible in the school and larger community, but also has a few tips for participating at a state or national level. The author gives suggestions for school librarians wanting to increase their profiles within their buildings. The author advised librarians to record all professional tasks completed each month, and then to submit this report to principals as a way of validating their worth. The author also suggested that librarians be seen as actively participating in community events as a way to network with possible volunteers.
Schulz, Cynthia D. 1999. “Developing and Advocacy Plan for the School Library Media Center” Book Report. 18(3): 19-23.
This article gives divides advocacy and marketing plans down into levels. She includes information for advocating for the library media center at the school level, the district level, the community level, and the state and national level. The article is full of useful tips. For example Schulz recommends that library media specialists get involved in conferences other than those devoted solely to library media centers. She advocates creating a relationship with your local media. Schulz also recommends library media specialists be involved in local and national organizations that affect school policy and procedures. This is a very detailed and informative article that would serve new and experiences library media specialists.
Riskin, Shelley. 2003. Dazzling kids with Dewey.
School Library Journal. 49(11):41.
This article is a short idea on how to get kids interested in learning about the Dewey Decimal System. In terms of PR, this would fall under the “exhibit” category, however, it represents so much more than a mere exhibit. Ms. Riskin, an actual school library media specialist, explains how she put together an interactive library exhibit to assist her in teaching students about the Dewey Decimal system. The exhibit not only engaged the kids, but they also went on to make connections between pieces of the exhibit and where
literature on each piece would be found in the library. Schrock, Kathy. “The ABC’s of Marketing.” School Library Journal49, no. 11 (November 2003): 36-37.
This article made a number of simple suggestions for the school librarian to use in publicizing library-sponsored events, including such things as giving teachers and students ample advance notice of event dates; networking with other library media specialists both locally and from other areas; utilizing school announcements and newsletters, and doing targeted “advertising” to specific teachers or grade levels. It also included a section on websites with great ideas for promoting the school library.
Seewald, Jacqueline. “Advocacy: Building Influence at the Grass Roots Level: Closing the School Year with Positive Public Relations.” Book Report (May/June 1999): 22-24. This article promotes the value of advocacy and grass roots public relations in the school library media center. This is what the author refers to as “building influence.” It emphasizes involving others in the processes and programs of the library and gives specific strategies for creating a sphere of influence in your school.
Seewald, Jacqueline. “Successful Public Relations Efforts: Using the Departmental Meeting as a Resource.” Book Report (May/June 1998): 11, 13. The goal of this article is to encourage Library Media Specialists to clear up misconceptions about what services they can provide in a school. As in other articles, Seewald advocates the use of departmental meetings as a way to help build public relations and rapport with colleagues, updating teachers on the resources available through the library media center and encouraging them to come in and explore print and on-line resources that apply to their subject area. Although some of the technology resources the author mentions are a bit dated, the principles she uses are strong and applicable. Shoaf, Eric C. "Managing Library Public Relations: An Interview with Marcia Schneider."Library Administration and Management. 17, no.3 (Fall 2003): 168-71.
In this brief sit-down interview, Marcia Schneider, Director of Public Affairs for San Fransisco Public Libraries, discusses with Eric Shoaf the ups and downs of spear-heading public relations for a library. The interview discusses everything from book-dumping to crisis management.
Singh, Rajesh. "Exploring the Connection between Marketing Knowledge and Behavior of Library and Information Professionals." Library Leadership and Management. 23, no.3 :113-21.
How much do we really know about marketing? This article attempts to answer this question from the viewpoint of library-media specialists. The article explores the questions: What kind of market orientation exists in different libraries? How much knowledge to librarians possess concerning contemporary marketing strategies? and, Is there a relationship between orientation and strategy?
Staff. “The New Service.” Library Journal 130 (2005): 23. http://web.ebscohost.com?vid=47&hid=108&sid=8b2clele-04120477a-b87 (accessed October 5, 2009).
This article is by far one of the most insightful articles that I found while searching for
this assignment. Right off the bat it addresses the frustration that most librarians have about the public not understanding everything the library has to offer. Well, for the manager of web information services at the Denver Public Library, (Michelle Jeske)she is simply turning the internet. She has made it to where all library users can “download ebooks, classical music, video trailers, and audiobooks.” “Jeske and her team believe that virtual users deserve full service.” Also, each part of the “virtual branch” is tailored to differ groups of users, for example the kids section is the “Secret Wonder Web” and the site for teenagers is “eVolve.” This article shows how using your resources to reach outside the library can implore creativity and help you to bring in all new types of users (that never step inside the library).
This was a very short article in the Library Journal that basically breaks the mold of
stereotypes people have of libraries. The rock trio, The High Strung, have been touring libraries
from New York to California. It began with Bill Harmer, who first booked them, and they have
been traveling now for three years. According to Harmer, the main motivation behind the tour is,
“…to change people’s images of what libraries can be...And I want young people to see that the
library can be a vibrant, relevant, place to go.” What a way to break the stereotype!
Stewart, Paulette. "Facebook and Virtual Literature Circle Partnership in Building a Community of Readers." Knowledge Quest. 37 no.4 (March 2009): 28-33. Fascinating article about the use of Facebook as a literature circle in high school. While this article is directly written about public relations, the aspects of Facebook and the social networking buzz the literature circle created were positive public relations examples for this library. The use of web 2.0 technology to highlight the library and integrate it into 21st century technology is a great example of library public relations.
Tingley, Suzanne. 2009. Classroom volunteers: Bonus or bother? Instructor 119, no. 2 (September/October): 27-29. This article discusses the pros and cons of classroom volunteers. It provides quotes from actual teachers who have had both positive and negative experiences with the volunteers in their classrooms. This article offers ten useful tips as a simple guideline for any school volunteer program.
Click on the word 'edit' on the tab in the upper right hand corner. Add your resources to the list by locating the correct placement according to alphabetical order. You can also click on the ''discussion tab' above and add a message related to your postings. Once you have posted all of your annotations to the wiki, paste qll of your annotations in one email and send it to Dr. Edwards.
Adams, Caralee. 2009. Digital storytelling. Instructor 119, no. 3 (November/December): 35-37.
This article emphasizes the infiltration of technology into classrooms and the positive and meaningful learning opportunities that this infiltration offers. Specifically, it discusses the process of digital story telling. It includes commentary from teachers across the United
States who have had positive experiences implementing digital story telling within their classrooms. This article also presents the key components necessary for digital storytelling to be successful.
Adams, Helen R. “Advocating for Intellectual Freedom with Principals and Teachers” School Library Media Activities Monthly 25, no. 6 (February 2009): 54.
This article deals with how to get your school informed and on board with intellectual freedom. The focal point is education. The author makes a good point that intellectual freedom is not a part of standard teacher or administrator training, and therefore it is up to the library media specialist to provide professional development in this area. When teachers and principals understand the reasons for intellectual freedom, they can knowledgably support the library media specialist if ever needed. This builds a base of allies.
Anderson, Cynthia. 1998. Salute your library volunteers. Library Talk 11(5): 15.
This is a short article that gives fun and unique ways of showing appreciation to the library volunteers. It includes a “skit” based on a popular Jonny Carson skit.
Barber, Peggy, and Linda Wallace. 2009. The power of word-of-mouth marketing. American Libraries 40 (11): 36-39.
Building buzz by training library staff simply to talk to patrons about library resources is the marketing technique the authors describe. The article cites the ease, effectiveness and no-cost aspects of word-of-mouth marketing.
Baule, Steven M. and Laura Blair Bertani. “Marketing 101 for your Library Media Program: How to Gain Support from your Board and Administration.” The Book Report (November/December) (2000): 47-49.
The authors, a director of information technology and the director of personnel and communications for New Trier Township High School district in Winnetka, Illinois, outline useful steps that a library media specialist can use to promote his or her program to administrators. They advise making the library visible and usable by offering to host board meetings. Further, publishing a well-written monthly or quarterly newsletter aids media specialists’ promotional goals. Most importantly, in public relations interactions, media specialists should use technology where appropriate to help propagate an image of the new resource manager in the library as opposed to a more traditional view of the “library lady.” A quick and easy read, this article is packed with solid practical advice.
Baum, Karen. 2002. A legend in their own lunchtime: Visiting speaking inspire kid to read and learn about different professions. School Library Journal 48(9):41.
This article is a review of a program put on by a real, elementary school librarian. “Library Lunchtime” is a program that brings in interesting characters to make presentation to students during their lunch hour. Students bring their lunches and listen to presentations, geared toward the attentions of elementary school students (however, I can see this in a middle school as well), focus on the interesting lives and profession of the visitors. Guests have included hypnotists, FBI agents, and even a student’s 57-year-old grandmother who is a world-class weight lifter (this brought in the largest crowd yet, over 100 students, to see a grandma lift 165 pounds in the library). The presenters and librarian always have books pulled that pair well with the presentation, and they are among the first checked after each program. This brief article introduces a great idea for getting kids in the library and reading for pleasure.
Berry III, John N. “Restart Library Advocacy.” Library Journal 130 (2005): 10.
Berry advocates that we restart library advocacy and develop campaigns to express the value of libraries. Library use is growing, suggesting that libraries must have the support of the community, above all else, to survive.
Bush, Gail, and Merrilee Andersen Kwielford. 2001. Marketing reflections: Advocacy in action. Teacher Librarian 28(5): 8-12.
This article discusses the lack of marketing in school libraries. It points out assumptions about and possessed by school librarians in terms of their necessary tasks. The article further outlines school collaboration, administrative support, community involvement, and the school library’s place within the sate and nation. Even if the article seems too theoretical, even just the knowledge of the different levels of marketing that need to be addressed in a school library may be enough to turn on the light bulb in the heads of a few school librarians: 6. State and National 5. Community 4. Administration 3. School 2. Library resources and programs 1. Basic assumptions about the library.
Casey, Michael, and Michael Stephens. “Let’s All Lighten Up.” Library Journal 133.13 (2008): 24. http://web.ebscohost.com/?vid=15&hid=6&sid=8b2clele-0412-477a-b972 (accessed October 5, 2009).
This article says exactly what the title says. It emphasizes the idea that libraries should be
fun for everyone. With the world the way it is Casey and Stephens believe that a library should be a place where anyone can come and enjoy themselves. They encourage the use of a colorful environment, the use of technology, and even the use of gamming systems for all ages. They even encourage staff recognition. Their bottom line, librarians, library staff, and patrons should, “Laugh. Explore. Play. Try new things. Give a little, Share a lot.”
Casey, Michael and Michael Stephens. “Library PR 2.0.” Library Journal 133 (2008): 24.
In a fast-paced, socially-networked society, libraries must connect to their users through marketing and programs. Services and news stories must be relevant to the users and promoted by all library staff.
Champion, Sandra and Christine Master. “When Disaster Strikes.” School Library Journal 39 (1993): 146.
After Hurricane Andrew, the Dade County Public School system librarians looked back at the lessons they learned from the devastation. Their school library media services department had a disaster plan, but never expected to actually use it. The new plan is more comprehensive and based on experience.
Circle, Allison. 2009. “Marketing Trends to Watch.” School Library Journal. 134(16): 26-9
This article contains a look at trends in marketing that could be applied to library media centers. The author discusses the usefulness of things like Twitter, mobile marketing, and video marketing. She also spends time analyzing the value of school library media centers, as well as online reputation management, and value-added content. Circle explores micromarketing, the death of email, and the importance of green library media centers. She also writes about the value of design, and creating an emotional connection. Circle also includes seven tips for making your marketing stronger. This article is useful for library media specialists with no experience or years of experience. It is full of helpful ideas and can be very useful in marketing your library.
Circle, Alison. 2009. Marketing trends to watch. Library Journal 134 (16):26-29.
By giving examples from the business world, the author encourages libraries to reach patrons through the use of 13 current technology and marketing avenues, including Twitter and text-messaging services.
Coatney, Sharon. “Does the room make the library program, or does the library program make the room?” Teacher Librarian (October 2005): 60.This article by describing the renovation of a library and the end of year evaluations shows that while making the library look good, either through renovation or PR may get people in the door, it is the librarians themselves that determine the final popularity and effectiveness of the library. This is especially important to remember when we are spending so much time focused on PR. PR is just to bring the people in. We need to serve them well or we are just wasting time.
Collier, Anne. 2009. A better safety net. School Library Journal 55, no. 11 (November): 36-38.
This article addresses the potential safety issues presented when children and young adults use the internet. The Internet Safety Technical Task Force has found that online issues such as cyberbullying are prevalent. The importance of children and young adults engaging in appropriate online behavior is stressed. This article suggests that aggressive and inappropriate online behavior of youth increases the risk of internet victimization. It concludes with advice for effective citizenship and literacy training in order to foster online safety for children and young adults.
Doyle, Miranda. 2008. Go where the teens are. Voice of Youth Advocates 30 (6):504-505.
Stop marketing a library’s electronic resources only to the library’s web sites is the advice the author gives in marketing library resources to teens. Innovative techniques taking advantage of popular electronic resources such as Facebook and LiveJournal are described.
Duckor, Anita S. "From Awareness to Funding." American Libraries. 40, no. 1/2. (Jan-Feb 2009):45-7.
In the midst of a financial crisis that eventually led to an unprecedented merging of two major library systems, the Minneapolis Public learned some tough lessons about being proactive about funding and advocacy. This unique look at success through failure is a wake up call to all librarians who feel it is not their job to promote the library in the community.
Fagan, Jody Condit. 2009. Marketing the virtual library. Computers in Libraries 29 (7):25-30.
Citing statistics showing the surprisingly greater number of Americans who visit a physical library as compared to those who use online libraries, the author gives easy suggestions for marketing a library’s electronic resources, including using postcards and brochures.
Farmer, Lesley. 1998, Know-how to help kids know now. Library Talk 11(5): 8. The article begins with ideas of jobs volunteers can perform in different areas of the library. It is then sectioned off with how to interview, train, deal with technology issues, and the supervision and development of the volunteers. Let the volunteers know they are a valuable part of the library.
Farmer, Lesley and Marilyn Shontz. 2009. Spending survey. School Library Journal 55, no. 4 (April): 38-44.
This article examines the expenditures and collections of school libraries in light of the current economic status. The examination is presented through the results of a survey conducted by School Library Journal. It addresses key components such as librarian experience in relation to salary, resource expenditures, collection size, and technological availability as well as usage. This article also includes various tables, charts, and graphs displaying data results of the financial status survey
Fullner, Sheryl Kindle. “Is Your Fish Dead? Create Your Library Brand.” Library Media Connection (March 2007): 32-33.
This article talks about the importance of creating and maintaining a brand for you school library. It examines the various audiences of a school library and gives advice on how to approach each of them. But despite the focus on parents, teachers, administration, and community as important audiences, the main focus of this article connecting with students.
Fullner, Sheryl Kindle. “Is Your Fish Dead?: Create Your Library Brand.” Library Media Connection 25, no. 6 (March 2007): 32-33. http://www.ebscohost.com/?vid=31&bk=1&hid=108&sid=8b2clele-0412-477a (accessed October 5, 2009).
This article directly correlates with what we have focused on this semester,
communicating who you are as a library to the public is a vital part of your existence. It covers
many of the things our book covered but in direct relation to a school library (mission statement,
physical environment, and doing more than the public’s expectations. It talks about school and
district newsletters being a good way to communicate your brand. The article also discusses the
importance of making sure your message is cohesive. Fullner gives 5 different ways for you to
figure out the publics perception of your school library. Each one focuses on a different group
with uses or is connected with the library: students, teachers, administrators, parents, and the
community.
Geier, Denise B. “Prevent a Disaster in Your Library: Advertise.” Library Media Connection (January 2007): 32-33.
This article advocates the idea that librarians need to demonstrate their contributions to their school in tangible ways in order to insure their jobs. Building a constituency and getting key reports to administrators are two major suggestions the author proposes, along with programming, publicity, collaboration with teachers, making the library the hub of the school, and developing connections with individuals and groups throughout the community. Highlighting our contributions on a regular basis will help our key role in the school become more evident and give us ammunition to help head off budget cuts.
Gilmore-See, Janice. "Call to Action for Library Media Specialists" School Library Media Activities Monthly 25, no. 5 (January 2009): 51-53.
This article has a great deal in common with our text. The author's focus is on the role of library media specialist as advocate, stressing the importance of relating to the community the value of the school library. Many of the suggestions in the article parallel our text, especially in regards to understanding public perception, press releases, and volunteering in the community. The author reminds library media specialists that the target audience for maintaining adequate staffing and funding are the constituents of the school board and other elected officials. If you can get the constituents on board with your program, the people that work to serve them will get on board too. Finally, the most impressive idea I found in the article was to have students create the public relations tools for the library such as videos, news, or blogs. I liked this idea because it promotes the library while showcasing the products of the librarian's work with students. How better to sell your program than to directly show how your are working with students and increasing their skills?
Gilmore-See, Janice. 2009. “Call to Action for Library Media Specialists.” School Library Media Activities Monthly. 25(5): 51-3.
This article highlights the image problem that school library media centers often have with adults. Gilmore addresses public relations issues. She advocates for a home base call to action, which simply means using the tools you already have to advocate for your library media center. She addresses where to start, attitude, enabling others to advocate, and updating the library’s image. Gilmore believes that students can be useful tools in advocating for the library media center. She advises media specialists to think big, and use tools like iMovie, blogs, and newscasts. This article is useful for new library media specialists just beginning their careers and more experienced media specialists trying to work on new advocating plans.
Goodstein, Anastasia. 2008. What would Madison Avenue do? Marketing to teens. School Library Journal 54(5) 40-43.
This article explores the habits and interests of teens as they could relate to a marketing campaign. The article targets ideas that are helpful in marketing to teens, especially marketing implemented by the library. The article begins with a few facts about teen habits that could be crucial elements to any campaign directed toward them (web habits, attention span, etc). Further included, specific tips on creating marketing campaigns that will attract teens.
Grossman, Jean Baldwin and Katyrn Furano. 1999. Making the Most of Volunteers. Law and Contemporary Problems. v 62
This article speaks to volunteering in general, but hits key points on how to allow volunteers to be effective no matter whom or what the host organization. It offers effective volunteer practices, evaluation and practical examples. In these settings, the effectiveness of volunteers depends critically on the support they receive from the programs in which they work.
Hand, Dorcas. "What Can Teacher-Librarians Do To Promote Their Work and the School Library Media Program? Keep Everyone in the Loop: Constant Advocacy. Teacher Librarian 36, no.2 (Dec 2008): 26.
This article provides sound advice to librarians about how to keep students, faculty and parents informed of the important role the library plays at the school. Hand suggests writing one press release every week, even if it is only in the school newsletter. Regular consistent updates to the library website and collaboration meetings with teachers are also on the short but idea rich list of advocacy recommendations. Harvey, Carl A. "Principal Perspective, Part 3: Advocacy and Shared Vision" School Library Media Activities Monthly 25, no. 6 (Feb 2009): 51-53.
Hartzell, Gary. "How Do Decision-Makers Become Library Media Advocates." Knowledge Quest 36, no. 1 (2007): 33 - 35.
This article examines how and why school administrators become advocates for school libraries. The main point of the article is that if school librarians want to improve their libraries they have to take a proactive stance at breaking down stereotypes that may be held school adminstrators. The article gives some general information and tips on how to do that.
Hartzell, Gary. "Tactics for Building Influence with Teachers." Library Media Connection 27, no. 1 (2008): 44.
Something I have learned from school media classes is that teachers can be are best advocates or our most reluctant users. It was constantly stressed that school media specialists had to cultivate relationships with teachers. This article contains 34 tips and suggestions for getting teachers and administration on the side of school media programs and specialists.Carl Harvey interviewed his principal and discusses the importance of the school library in this article. Topics covered include the importance of collaboration between LMS and teachers, funding for the library and advice on how to keep the library on the radar for the district.
Hoagland, Mary Arthur. 1984. Training and gaining school library volunteers. Catholic Library World 56(5): 213-16.While this article speaks to an audience for parochial elementary school libraries, it offers tips and suggestions that can be used by any type of school library. Not only does it give various resources for recruitment and training, it also offers assistance for the volunteers like book mending, reviewing and purchasing
Howard, Jody K. "Advocacy through Relationships" School Library Monthly 26, no.2 (October 2009): 44-45.
This article focuses primarily on promoting the library through positive interactions with peers. The author emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and understanding that the overall opinion of the library can be strongly influenced by the image the librarian conveys to the community. Creating and maintaining positive relationships in the school and wider community is presented not only as an essential PR tool, but as a tool for changing the environment of the school as well. Illustrations are presented to show the power of positive work experiences between librarians and the teachers they collaborate with. In one instance, a positive relationship of teaching and collaboration led to changing the overall school policy in favor of flexible scheduling.
Immroth, Barbara, and W. Bernard Lukenbill. 2007. Teacher-School library media specialist collaboration through social marketing strategies: An information behavior study. School Library Media Research, vol 10. http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/aasl/aaslpubsandjournals/slmrb/slmrcontents/volume10/immroth_teacherslmscollaboration.cfm#method (accessed November 14, 2009).
This article performed research on teacher interaction, acceptance, and attitudes of the school media center. Different attempts to promote collaboration between teachers and librarians were tested, and the thoughts and feelings of the librarians and teachers involved were measured and codified. “Social marketing is a concept promoted by Zaltman, Kotler, and Kaufman (1972), in which they reasoned that the same marketing principles used to sell products to consumers could be used to promote socially beneficial ideas, attitudes, and behaviors to target audiences.”
Isaacson, David. “Serve Their Needs, Not Their Wants.” Library Journal 131 (2006): 82.
Libraries need to focus on the business of educating users and making knowledge accessible, rather than attempting to compete with popular bookstores. Librarians are essential for educating society on accessing and evaluating information.
Johns, Sara Kelly. “Connections, communications, collaborations...are we there yet?” Knowledge Quest (May-June 2008): 4-7.
This article is more about promoting the value of library media specialists than the library. It gives specific instances in which action has been taken to increase the understanding in communities across the country of the value of a library media specialist. When so many people seem to think all librarians do is file and check out books I think this type of PR is very important.
Johns, Sara Kelly. "What Can Teacher-Librarians Do to Promote Their Work and School Library Media Program? Offensive Formula: P + M=A." Teacher Librarian. 36, no.2 (Dec 2008): 30-31.
Promotion + Marketing = Advocacy is the focus of this article by Sara Kelly Johns. Johns explains the logic behind her formula, always keep the library in view so faculty, administration and parents recognize the importance of the school library. Regular promotions, good rapport with teachers and having a presence at all school events are encouraged in this article. The author suggests the LMS wear clothing promoting the library, or reading in general, at after hours school events to provide conversation starters to those attending.
Junion-Metz, Gail. 2003. “Sell Yourself” School Library Journal. 49(10): 40.This article contains public relations and marketing tips for library media specialists. It contains links to five websites with marketing and public relations tips. Some of the organizations included are: Ohio Library Foundation, North Suburban Library System, and the American Library Association. The article also links to more articles on marketing. It is a good article for new library media specialists. However, it would be more useful if it had more links.
Kenner, Adam and Sheryl Rivera. “Media literacy: good news.” Knowledge Quest (March-April 2007): 58-60.This article discusses the effects of media on children and the necessity of teaching them to read between the lines. It could be considered for examples of how modern advertising works to reach children, and also as a caution, because children pick up the messages we give them almost subconsciously and we need to be sure our messages are always completely honestly and accurate. We need to be aware of how powerful advertising and not take that power for granted.
Labiak, Beth. “It’s Never Too Late to Promote Your Library Services.” Library Media Connection (February 2007): 49.
This article gives specific, practical ideas for improving your school’s awareness of the library media center and the resources it offer both students and teachers. The emphasis here is on the fact that even small efforts to reach out to others in the school community make a positive impact on how others perceive your library programs and resources.
very?vid=9&hid=6&sid=8b2clele-0412-477a-b972-2 (accessed October 5, 2009).
This article first describes Web 2.0 and its function in our society. It compares the rise in
popularity to first appearance and introduction that the world wide web had on libraries. She
encourages librarians to see Web 2.p and its daily advancements as a tool for librarians and not
something else that is taking the place of books. She discusses what some people say are the
evils of Web 2.0. the most important thing that McDermott draws attention to is multiple 2.0
applications that be used by librarians to improve their library, reach new patrons, and make their
job easier. She even references the use of Wiki pages! This article is a great reference for
multiple online sites, programs, and services to make the job of a librarian easier and more
interactive.
Examples: www.librarything.com, http://del.icio.us, www.facebook.com,
http://www.bloglines.com, http://mashable.com/2007/07/04
Lanham, Allen. 2009. An invitation is never out of fashion. ILA Reporter 27 (2):22-23.
Although the article is aimed toward academic libraries, all libraries can find the author’s ideas for inviting current library users to bring new library patrons into a library’s programs.
Lemmons, Karen. 2009. Professional development 2.0. School Library Monthly 26, no. 3 (November): 22-23.
This article describes an online course, “23 Things Teachers Need to Know about Web 2.0,” offered by Wayne Regional Educational Services. It provides advice for preparing for the ten week program. It also outlines a schedule of concepts and activities that the ten week program covers. This article also suggests ways for school librarians to create a personalized version of this course in order to foster technological awareness and implementation most appropriate for their given school and curriculum.
Levitov, Deborah Detenbeck. 2009. “Advocacy Links…Tools to Use.” School Library Media Activities Monthly. 25(7): 4.
Levitov highlights some useful PR tools on the American Association of School Librarians website. She notes that one needs to understand the definitions of public relations, marketing, and advocacy to be able to start advocacy planning. She stresses the significance of public relations and advocacy to library management.
Loertscher, David. "Advocating through Statistics, Research, and Major Reports." Teacher Librarian 36, no. 2 (2008): 46.
This article is a guide for school librarian who need to find statistics, surveys, and other quantitative data for their advocacy campaigns. It includes sites for federal and state statistics, technology surveys, and other reports related to school libraries.
Logan, Debra Kay. "Being Heard . . . Advocacy+Evidence+Students=Impact!" School Library Media Activities Monthly 23, no. 1 (2006): 46 - 48.
This is an interesting article on how advocacy is first defined and then put into practice. Ms. Logan says that advocacy first starts with what is meaningful to stakeholders (students), and then using qualitative and quantitative data to show to teachers and administrators the positive impact school libraries have on student learning.
Mangel, Kristy. " P.I.G.S.: The "Silk Purse" of Library Marketing." Illinois Library Association Reporter. 19, no.2. (April 2001): 10-12.
The article discusses the region-wide marketing plan developed by the Alliance Library System (ALS) in Illinois. The plan, designed to raise awareness of ALS's role in interlibrary loans, gave the ALS much more than it expected. This look at a successful marketing plan is a great tool for any librarian.
McElmeel, Sharon L. "Making PR an Outreach Activity." Book Report 19, no. 1 (2000): 10 - 11.
This article explains the importance of extending PR beyond school walls. It gives tips and ideas for spreading the word about school libraries in the broader community with such things as food drives. It also gives handy tips on writing press releases and newsletters.
McHenry, Cheryl. 1988. Library volunteers: Recruiting, motivating, keeping them. School Library Journal 34(9): 44-47.
Having good volunteers in a library is a vital component to a successful program. This article gives simple and practical ideas on how to recruit, train, motivate and appreciate.
Martin, Ann. "Promote, Lead & Refuse: Librarianship in Tough Times." Knowledge Quest. 37, no.4 (March 2009): 6.
The 2008-09 American Assocation of School Librarians President Ann Martin writes about the need for continuing advocacy in tough economic times. This article discusses the need for all school librarians to "proactively position the Library Media Program as an area of critical need ...and the library as essential" Martin explains that too often librarians do not advocate the importance of use of the library and it becomes an easy target when budget crisis occur. The AASL toolkits are discussed and information on how to access the toolkits as well as other resources are listed.
Miller, Donna. "Customers and Culture: The Who and What of Library Public Relations Efforts." Library Talk. (May/June 2002): 12-16.
This article is a resource for the school media specialist who is wary of PR and putting themselves out in the public. There are little, everyday things that can have as much of an impact on public relations as the big campaigns and promotions. The author reminds librarians that going beyond normal expectations to aid peers can boost a librarian's image. Try to have positive relationships with every peer, supervisor, and community member that you can. Invest in building relationships that can be improved upon. Know what is expected of you within the school community and try to meet those expectations. It is often the little things that get overlooked that can damage public relations, like not showing team spirit by wearing the school colors on Friday, so be willing to focus on details.
“Partners in a Great Adventure.” Library Journal 130 (2005): 14.
Ingenuity and fun must be incorporated in public relations to sell a program. Partnerships with the community, local businesses, government agencies, and other librarians are crucial by combining the strengths of many into something successful.
Schulz, Cynthia D. "Developing an Advocacy Plan for the SchoolLibraryMediaCenter. Book Report. (November/December 1999): 19-22.
This article deals largely with librarians making themselves more visible in the school and larger community, but also has a few tips for participating at a state or national level. The author gives suggestions for school librarians wanting to increase their profiles within their buildings. The author advised librarians to record all professional tasks completed each month, and then to submit this report to principals as a way of validating their worth. The author also suggested that librarians be seen as actively participating in community events as a way to network with possible volunteers.
Schulz, Cynthia D. 1999. “Developing and Advocacy Plan for the School Library Media Center” Book Report. 18(3): 19-23.
This article gives divides advocacy and marketing plans down into levels. She includes information for advocating for the library media center at the school level, the district level, the community level, and the state and national level. The article is full of useful tips. For example Schulz recommends that library media specialists get involved in conferences other than those devoted solely to library media centers. She advocates creating a relationship with your local media. Schulz also recommends library media specialists be involved in local and national organizations that affect school policy and procedures. This is a very detailed and informative article that would serve new and experiences library media specialists.
Riskin, Shelley. 2003. Dazzling kids with Dewey.
School Library Journal. 49(11):41.
This article is a short idea on how to get kids interested in learning about the Dewey Decimal System. In terms of PR, this would fall under the “exhibit” category, however, it represents so much more than a mere exhibit. Ms. Riskin, an actual school library media specialist, explains how she put together an interactive library exhibit to assist her in teaching students about the Dewey Decimal system. The exhibit not only engaged the kids, but they also went on to make connections between pieces of the exhibit and where
literature on each piece would be found in the library.
Schrock, Kathy. “The ABC’s of Marketing.” School Library Journal 49, no. 11 (November 2003): 36-37.
This article made a number of simple suggestions for the school librarian to use in publicizing library-sponsored events, including such things as giving teachers and students ample advance notice of event dates; networking with other library media specialists both locally and from other areas; utilizing school announcements and newsletters, and doing targeted “advertising” to specific teachers or grade levels. It also included a section on websites with great ideas for promoting the school library.
Seewald, Jacqueline. “Advocacy: Building Influence at the Grass Roots Level: Closing the School Year with Positive Public Relations.” Book Report (May/June 1999): 22-24.
This article promotes the value of advocacy and grass roots public relations in the school library media center. This is what the author refers to as “building influence.” It emphasizes involving others in the processes and programs of the library and gives specific strategies for creating a sphere of influence in your school.
Seewald, Jacqueline. “Successful Public Relations Efforts: Using the Departmental Meeting as a Resource.” Book Report (May/June 1998): 11, 13.
The goal of this article is to encourage Library Media Specialists to clear up misconceptions about what services they can provide in a school. As in other articles, Seewald advocates the use of departmental meetings as a way to help build public relations and rapport with colleagues, updating teachers on the resources available through the library media center and encouraging them to come in and explore print and on-line resources that apply to their subject area. Although some of the technology resources the author mentions are a bit dated, the principles she uses are strong and applicable.
Shoaf, Eric C. "Managing Library Public Relations: An Interview with Marcia Schneider." Library Administration and Management. 17, no.3 (Fall 2003): 168-71.
In this brief sit-down interview, Marcia Schneider, Director of Public Affairs for San Fransisco Public Libraries, discusses with Eric Shoaf the ups and downs of spear-heading public relations for a library. The interview discusses everything from book-dumping to crisis management.
Singh, Rajesh. "Exploring the Connection between Marketing Knowledge and Behavior of Library and Information Professionals." Library Leadership and Management. 23, no.3 :113-21.
How much do we really know about marketing? This article attempts to answer this question from the viewpoint of library-media specialists. The article explores the questions: What kind of market orientation exists in different libraries? How much knowledge to librarians possess concerning contemporary marketing strategies? and, Is there a relationship between orientation and strategy?
Staff. “The New Service.” Library Journal 130 (2005): 23. http://web.ebscohost.com?vid=47&hid=108&sid=8b2clele-04120477a-b87 (accessed October 5, 2009).
This article is by far one of the most insightful articles that I found while searching for
this assignment. Right off the bat it addresses the frustration that most librarians have about the public not understanding everything the library has to offer. Well, for the manager of web information services at the Denver Public Library, (Michelle Jeske)she is simply turning the internet. She has made it to where all library users can “download ebooks, classical music, video trailers, and audiobooks.” “Jeske and her team believe that virtual users deserve full service.” Also, each part of the “virtual branch” is tailored to differ groups of users, for example the kids section is the “Secret Wonder Web” and the site for teenagers is “eVolve.” This article shows how using your resources to reach outside the library can implore creativity and help you to bring in all new types of users (that never step inside the library).
Staff. “A Rock Band Tours the Libraries.” Library Journal 132.12 (2007): 13. http://web.ebscohost.com/?vid=21&hid=6&sid=8b2clele-0412-477a-b972 (accessed October 5, 2009).
This was a very short article in the Library Journal that basically breaks the mold of
stereotypes people have of libraries. The rock trio, The High Strung, have been touring libraries
from New York to California. It began with Bill Harmer, who first booked them, and they have
been traveling now for three years. According to Harmer, the main motivation behind the tour is,
“…to change people’s images of what libraries can be...And I want young people to see that the
library can be a vibrant, relevant, place to go.” What a way to break the stereotype!
Stewart, Paulette. "Facebook and Virtual Literature Circle Partnership in Building a Community of Readers." Knowledge Quest. 37 no.4 (March 2009): 28-33. Fascinating article about the use of Facebook as a literature circle in high school. While this article is directly written about public relations, the aspects of Facebook and the social networking buzz the literature circle created were positive public relations examples for this library. The use of web 2.0 technology to highlight the library and integrate it into 21st century technology is a great example of library public relations.
Tingley, Suzanne. 2009. Classroom volunteers: Bonus or bother? Instructor 119, no. 2 (September/October): 27-29.This article discusses the pros and cons of classroom volunteers. It provides quotes from actual teachers who have had both positive and negative experiences with the volunteers in their classrooms. This article offers ten useful tips as a simple guideline for any school volunteer program.